This Sunday afternoon, the AFC teams will clash in an exciting preseason matchup. The Denver Broncos (8-9; 6-10-1 ATS last season) will visit the Indianapolis Colts (9-8; 9-8-0 ATS) at Lucas Oil Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 p.m. EST. These two franchises are set to meet again in Week 15 of the regular NFL season. However, before that rematch, both teams will need to finalize their rosters. The decisions made this Sunday could impact their strategies in the future.
Denver’s New Chapter Under Payton
This season marks a significant year for the Broncos as they continue under Head Coach Sean Payton. After a shaky start last season, finishing at 8-9 after a 1-5 beginning, the team is eager to build on last year’s progress.
The quarterback position is a focal point for growth, especially after parting ways with Russell Wilson. Jarrett Stidham and Bo Nix are the leading contenders for the starting role, while Zach Wilson aims to secure a place on the roster. Each snap taken by Denver’s offense in the preseason will be critical for evaluating these players. In addition, the Broncos are also searching for a new starting center, with Luke Wattenberg currently in the lead over Alex Forsyth and Sam Mustipher. In the backfield, Samaje Perine is under pressure to perform well this preseason to avoid becoming a cap casualty. The Broncos’ offense, which ranked 26th in total yards last season, desperately needs to improve, and Sunday’s game is a crucial first step.
On the defensive side, the Broncos finished 27th in scoring and 29th in total yards allowed last season. As they head into 2024, many positions are still up for grabs. Pat Surtain II and Ja’Quan McMillan are set as starting cornerbacks, but the other spot remains uncertain. With injuries affecting two safeties ahead of this game, players like Devon Key have a golden opportunity to shine. Inside linebacker Alex Singleton is the only definite starter, but the team has numerous gaps to fill on defense as well. This game will be pivotal in determining who will step up.
Key Injuries – Brandon Jones (questionable), Drew Sanders (out), Justin Strnad (out), Delarrin Turner-Yell (out), Levi Wallace (questionable)
The Colts’ Quest for Consistency
Despite quarterback Anthony Richardson’s limited participation last season, the Colts managed to maintain a top-10 scoring offense, achieving a winning record. They have a clear sense of their identity as a team.
This Sunday, the focus for Indianapolis will be on addressing key offensive gaps. With Zack Moss no longer on the roster, the backup running back position is up for grabs, and Trey Sermon appears to have the upper hand. The battle for the third wide receiver spot could come down to Adonai Mitchell or Alec Pierce. Additionally, no tight ends have secured a guaranteed roster position, adding to the uncertainty. The competition for the third tackle spot will likely narrow down to either Matt Gonclaves or Blake Freeland. Although many starters may see limited action, the stakes are high for several players on the Colts’ offensive unit.
The Colts’ defense, however, raises some concerns. Last season, they allowed the fifth-most points in the league. Heading into 2024, there are numerous questions, especially regarding the cornerback and free safety positions, with three players currently competing for each. The addition of free agent Raekwon Davis, who is on the non-football illness list, leaves even more uncertainty. The quest to finalize the defensive depth chart will be challenging.
Key Injuries – Raekwon Davis (out), Josh Downs (questionable), Samson Ebukam (out), Will Mallory (questionable)
Best Bets for Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts
The Broncos’ quarterback competition could make them a formidable opponent in the preseason. Each offensive possession will present an opportunity for players to showcase their abilities, especially since two of the three contenders have prior NFL starting experience. Facing a weakened defense that struggled last season, Denver appears poised for success.
On the other hand, the Broncos’ defense may only contend with one or two drives from Anthony Richardson, who poses less of a running threat. This dynamic should enable the Broncos to maintain control over the Colts’ offense. Betting on the road team to not only win but also cover the spread seems like a sound strategy.
